What do Mayans keep sacred in this book? What do their rituals say about Mayan culture? How does Tigre go against Mayan culture?

How is religion viewed by the Mayans? Do they worship the gods unselfishly or with selfish purpose? What do the gods represent for the Mayans?

What does this book say about education? Is it useful or does it make Tigre an outcast? How does Tigre use education to advance himself? Do the Mayan villagers and Tigre's family use education in any way?

Are the female characters strong or weak in this book? Who is the strongest female character and why? Who is the weakest and why? Do the male characters treat the females as equals or inferiors?

What does the corn represent, beside food? How does corn shape the life of this Mayan village? What does Tigre learn about the importance...